Scenic America is thrilled to announce recent victories for conservation and recreation, including the passage of the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act and the permanent protection of key lands within Grand Teton National Park. These milestones mark significant steps in safeguarding America’s natural treasures and improving access to outdoor spaces for all.

EXPLORE Act: Expanding Outdoor Opportunities

The EXPLORE Act, recently passed with overwhelming bipartisan approval, builds upon the framework established by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA). This unity across party lines reinforces a shared national commitment to preserving the environment and fostering equitable access to the outdoors. Key provisions of the EXPLORE Act include:

• Direct Access for Tribal Nations: For the first time, tribal nations can directly apply for Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grants to create and improve recreational spaces on tribal lands.
• Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) Program: The Act permanently codifies ORLP, focusing on underserved urban communities that lack adequate green spaces, fostering equity in park access nationwide.
• Support for Gateway Communities: Measures to boost infrastructure in towns adjacent to public lands will improve visitor experiences and strengthen local economies.

Will Shafroth, president of the Trust for Public Land, highlighted the bipartisan nature of the legislation: “The passage of the EXPLORE Act is a transformative step toward addressing disparities in park access, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to connect with nature, regardless of where they live. It’s inspiring to see leaders from both sides come together for this shared goal.”

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF): A Pillar of Preservation

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), created in 1964, serves as the backbone of America’s outdoor conservation efforts. By leveraging revenues from offshore oil and gas leases, the LWCF has supported the acquisition and preservation of millions of acres of public land, from urban parks to vast national forests.

The passage of the Great American Outdoors Act in 2020 ensured full and permanent funding for the LWCF, guaranteeing $900 million annually for critical conservation and recreation projects. The EXPLORE Act strengthens this legacy by expanding the fund’s reach and inclusivity:

• Urban and Underserved Communities: Increased LWCF funding now prioritizes projects that address inequities in outdoor access, ensuring green spaces are available to all Americans, regardless of geography or income.
• Wildlife Habitat and Ecosystems: LWCF grants continue to support the protection of vital ecosystems, preserving biodiversity and ensuring resilience in the face of climate change.

The LWCF’s enduring impact is evident in every corner of the country, from the smallest community park to the largest national landscapes. Its role in shaping America’s natural legacy cannot be overstated.

Permanent Protections for Grand Teton National Park

In tandem with the EXPLORE Act, the Department of the Interior recently announced the acquisition of the Kelly parcel, a 640-acre tract within Grand Teton National Park. This move permanently protects critical wildlife migration corridors and enhances the ecological integrity of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

As one of the nation’s most impactful conservation tools, the LWCF provided the necessary funding to secure this vital piece of land, showcasing its role in protecting iconic landscapes while supporting ecological and recreational goals.

Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland emphasized the importance of bipartisan collaboration in achieving these goals: “These protections reflect a united commitment to safeguarding America’s iconic landscapes for current and future generations.”

Building on the Legacy of the GAOA

The GAOA, enacted in 2020 with bipartisan support, was a watershed moment for conservation, addressing deferred maintenance on public lands and securing permanent funding for the LWCF. Scenic America was instrumental in the passage of the GAOA, providing legislative and advocacy support. The success of the GAOA has inspired a five-year extension to the program, the America the Beautiful Act, which was recently announced and will soon be introduced for voting in Congress.

The America the Beautiful Act seeks to extend the GAOA’s impact by funding innovative conservation programs, expanding protections for wildlife corridors, and promoting community-driven efforts to preserve scenic and cultural landscapes.

Bipartisan Leadership Driving Progress

The unanimous bipartisan support for these efforts highlights the universal importance of conservation and recreation to all Americans. This collaboration serves as a powerful reminder that preserving our nation’s natural heritage transcends political divides, uniting lawmakers in the pursuit of a shared vision for the future.

Looking Ahead

These legislative and programmatic victories reaffirm the nation’s commitment to conserving its natural heritage, expanding access to outdoor opportunities, and preserving heritage and scenic sites nationwide. With the anticipated introduction of the America the Beautiful Act, the future of scenic conservation in the U.S. looks brighter than ever.

Scenic America celebrates these wins and continues to advocate for policies that protect our country’s most treasured landscapes, ensuring they remain vibrant and accessible for all. As the America the Beautiful Act returns to Congress for consideration, Scenic America will remain committed to advancing this critical legislation with advocacy and grassroots legislative support. Join Scenic America’s mailing list to be alerted when supportive advocacy actions are available.